Cincinnati Chapter Color Guard
History & Objectives
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Dedication
These two volumes of the Cincinnati Chapter Nolan Car-
son Memorial Color Guard Manual, is dedicated to the
current and past members of the Nolan Carson Memorial
Color Guard.
Since 1998, compatriots of the Cincinnati Chapter have
determined to show honor and respect to the Flag and
Heritage of the United States through their respectful
presentation of the National Colors and the story of our
National Journey.
It is with pride and a sense of duty that the Nolan Carson
Memorial Color Guard continues this Legacy of Respect
while seeking opportunities to introduce the idea of Patri-
otic Love of Country, to citizens, old and new, in these
United States.
Respectfully Dedicated
Turner Lee Wilkerson III
Commander 2017/2018
Nolan Carson Memorial Color Guard
Cincinnati Chapter
Sons of the American Revolution
Cincinnati Chapter Color Guard
History & Objectives
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T a b l e o f C o n t e n t s
Chapter I ...................................................................................................................... 5
Color Guard Mission, History & Activities ....................................................... 5
Color Guard Manual .........................................................................................5
History of the Nolan Carson Memorial Color Guard ............................6
History of the Color Guard ............................................................................8
History of Drill & Ceremony ...........................................................................9
Purpose of Drill & Ceremony ....................................................................... 10
Chapter II .................................................................................................................. 11
Color Guard Organization, Roles & Responsibilities ................................ 11
Color Guard Structure and Leadership .................................................. 11
Roles and Responsibilities of the Color Guard Members &
Leadership .......................................................................................................... 12
Color Guard Commander .............................................................................. 12
Safety Officer and Armorer......................................................................... 12
Paymaster Adjutant – ..................................................................................... 12
Quartermaster Adjutant ............................................................................... 12
Community Outreach Adjutant .................................................................... 12
Chapter III ................................................................................................................. 13
For the Color Guard Commander .................................................................... 13
The Command Voice ......................................................................................... 13
Chapter IV ................................................................................................................ 15
Firearms Safety & Safety Equipment ............................................................... 15
Nominal Musket Nomenclature ................................................................... 16
Required Safety Equipment ........................................................................... 17
Chapter V ................................................................................................................. 19
Parades and Presentation Of National Colors .......................................... 19
Marching or Parade Formations ................................................................. 19
Change Direction of March by Column ..................................................... 21
Change Direction of March by the Right or Left Oblique .................. 22
Change Direction of March by the Right or Left Wheel ..................... 23
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Change Direction of March by the Right or Left Flank ...................... 24
M o v e m e n t o f C o l o r s i n F o r m a t i o n ........................................... 25
Display Sequence of the Colors ................................................................. 27
Appendix – a ............................................................................................................. 29
Musket Safety Inspection ............................................................................. 29
PART III – INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE INSPECTIONS ................. 29
FREQUENCY OF INSPECTIONS .................................................................... 29
Misfire Procedures ......................................................................................... 32
National Color Guard Commander’s Policy and Procedures—
Firearms use in Drill & Ceremony ................................................................ 34
A. Policies ..................................................................................................... 34
B. Procedures ............................................................................................... 35
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C h a p t e r I
C o l o r G u a r d M i s s i o n ,
H i s t o r y & A c t i v i t i e s
Color Guard Manual
This narrative, is intended for the edification of Cincinnati Chapter members desiring to participate in the
Nolan Carson Memorial Color Guard. The contents of this manual should be especially helpful to those
with little to no experience with drill & ceremony as well as those that might have experience acquired
during their military service. A companion pamphlet, Drill & Ceremony Manual, outlining the command
and movement that will govern our performance in commemorative ceremonies can also be found on the
Color Guard page of the Cincinnati SAR Website. All of us can benefit from the instruction within relating
to the colonial manner of Drill & Ceremony that was taught to our Continental Army in the 18th century
by Major General Baron Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben.
As we seek to replicate realism in the portrayal of our ancestry we shall need to focus our attention on the
details of behavior needed to achieve this goal.
Given that the SAR is a historical, educational and patriotic lineage society that seeks to maintain and
extend:
The institutions of American freedom
An appreciation for true patriotism
A respect for our national symbols
The value of American citizenship, and
The unifying force of E Pluribus Unum that
created one nation and one people
We strive to perpetuate the heroic triumph of the patri-
ots whose courage established the independence of the
United States of America through our programs and
outreach to state and local communities.
The Nolan Carson Memorial Color Guard was formed
as an extension of the Cincinnati Chapter SAR to pro-
vide a service of remembrance to the citizens of our
community—a reminder of the struggles braved by our
ancestors in the fight for freedom that was required to
gain our independence from Great Britain during the
birth of our nation.
Members of our guard frequently typically will wear
the uniform that may have been worn by their revolu-
tionary war ancestor. Some of the units represented
are: First Virginia Regiment, Second Massachusetts
Regiment, Thirteenth Virginia Regiment, South Caro-
lina Militia, Virginia Militia, Morgan’s Rifles and
Pennsylvania Militia
The Guardsmen carry reproduction weapons that were
likely carried by their patriot ancestry such as the British Brown Bess, French Charleville, Kentucky Long
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Rifle, various fowling guns and a number of edged weapons such as the 1751 Hanger (sword), Dragoon’s
Sabers and bayonets. While we do not considered ourselves reenactors, we do attempt to bring as much
realism to our Historical and Color Guard Ceremonies as possible.
New members to the Color Guard are always welcome to join us in celebrating the lives of our patriot an-
cestors and presenting to the public a genuine celebration of American History, as it was recorded, during
this period of our nation’s evolution
History of the Nolan Carson Memorial
Color Guard
Founding Members of the Nolan Carson Memorial Color Guard (left to right) – Paul M. Wilke, J. Ross Amos, John E. Simmons, and Brian Schilling
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Former National Society President General, Nolan W. Carson, was
also a Past President of the Cincinnati Chapter SAR and Past Pres-
ident of the Ohio Society SAR. His legacy of leadership and patri-
otism inspired compatriots of his home chapter to memorialize his
contributions to the Society and Country within the Color Guard
that now bears his name.
Prior to his passing on 7 December 1997 at his Anderson Township
home he was counsel attorney with Dinsmore & Shohl, LLP and a
community leader. Carson joined what is now Dinsmore & Shohl
in 1951, after serving in World War II and earning his law degree
from the University of Michigan. He served a term in the Ohio
House from 1961-62, and held leadership positions with the Ham-
ilton County Park Board, the Natural History Museum and the Cin-
cinnati Southern Railway. Carson was also a director emeritus with
Fifth Third Bancorp.
Compatriot Carson became President of the Cincinnati Chapter of
the Ohio Society in 1961 and was later elected to lead the Ohio
Society as President in 1970. In 1987, Compatriot Carson became
President General of the National Society of the Sons of the Amer-
ican Revolution. His legacy of leadership and community service continues to inspire those who knew him
personally and those of us who follow his example of patriotism and dedication to these United States.
Compatriot Paul M. Wilke, a member of the SAR since 31 March 1998, a Past President of the Cincinnati
Chapter SAR, Past President of the Ohio Society, Past Vice President General of the National Society and
one of the founding members of the Nolan Carson Memorial Color Guard, went on to become the longest
serving commander of the color guard, holding the position on three separate occasions for a total of ten
years.
During the course of Paul’s service he received a number of color guard honors and awards. He was nom-
inated and elected by the National Society to receive the Gold Color Guard Medal on 11 July 2017 as the
2017 Color Guardsman of the year. His previous Color Guard Awards include the Bronze Color Guard
Medal (05/02/2002), Silver Color Guard Medal (05/07/2005) & Von Steuben Medal (09/27/2014).
Paul’s passion for the honor of guarding the colors is being passed to the next generation of those who share
his love of God & Country—compatriots desiring to be remembered for their patriotism and service to
those who gave us our Constitution, the Bill of Rights, an Independent Supreme Court, and a Nation of Free
Men.
Nolan Ca rson Memorial Color G uard
Nolan Carson Memorial Color Guard
Established in 1998m
Commander Dates of Service
J. Ross Amos 1998 1999
John E. Simmons 2000 2004
Paul M. Wilke 2005 2008
John Kirts 2009 2009
Paul M. Wilke 2009 2011
John O. Langlitz 2011 2011
Paul M. Wilke 2012 2017
President Nolan W. Carson Cincinnati Chapter 1961
Ohio Society 1970 National Society 1987
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History of the Color Guard 1
The Color Guard of the 21st century is primarily ceremonial in terms of purpose and duty. However, the
origins of the Color Guard are based in military practicality. The following is a concise history of the
origin of the Color Guard.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, flags were commonly referred to as “the Colors.” These colors were of
primary importance to the military regiment or brigade as the line of battle was formed around the colors
of the unit which were placed at the center of the line. These colors were easily seen through the smoke
of battle. If the colors advanced, the line would advance. If the colors retired, the line would retire. As
battles would progress and casualties mounted, the line would contract to the colors. In effect, the colors
would serve as a rallying point if the line was broken or the men became dispersed. Thus, success in battle
was often dependent on the handling of the colors.
The importance of the colors was so significant that a ceremony was performed before battle called “The
Trooping of the Colors.” The men of the regiment or brigade were assembled on the parade ground in
camp and the colors were paraded before them. This way, each man would see and thus be certain of his
colors before taking the field of battle.
Likewise, while there could be many diverse objectives in a battle, one of the most important was captur-
ing of the colors of the enemy unit. This would deprive the enemy of their primary means of control and
rallying point during the battle. To prevent this, regiments and brigades would select the most valiant men
to protect the colors and color bearer. These men comprised the “Color’s Guard,” a posting of great honor
and source of pride. As in years past, this posting continues to be a position of honor.
1 Extracted from The National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution Color Guard Handbook.
Regiments in Line of Battle
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History of Drill & Ceremony 2
Military history reveals that armies throughout the world have participated in some form of drill. The pri-
mary value of drill historically has been to prepare troops for battle. For the most part, the drill procedures
practiced have been identical to the tactical maneuvers employed on the battlefield. Drill has enabled com-
manders to quickly move their forces from one point to another, mass their forces into a battle formation
that afforded maximum firepower, and maneuver those forces as the situation developed.
In 1775, when this country was striving for independence and existence, the nation’s leaders were con-
fronted with the problem of not only establishing a government but also of organizing an army that was
already engaged in war. From the “shot heard around the world,” on 19 April 1775, until Valley Forge in
1778, revolutionary forces were little more than a group of civilians fighting Indian-style against well-
trained, highly disciplined British Redcoats. For three years, General George Washington’s troops had en-
dured many hardships— lack of funds, rations, clothing, and equipment. In addition, they had suffered loss
after loss to the superior British forces. These hardships and losses mostly stemmed from the lack of a
military atmosphere in country. Thus, an army was created with little or no organization, control, discipline,
or teamwork.
Recognizing the crisis, General Washington, through Benja-
min Franklin, the American Ambassador to France, enlisted the
aid of a Prussian officer, Baron Friedrich von Steuben. Upon
his arrival at Valley Forge on 23 February 1778, von Steuben,
a former staff officer with Frederick the Great, met an army of
several thousand half-starved, wretched men in rags. He com-
mented that a European army could not be kept together in such
a state. To correct the conditions that prevailed, he set to work
immediately and wrote drill movements and regulations at
night and taught them the following day to a model company
of 120 men selected from the line.
Discipline became a part of military life for these selected in-
dividuals as they learned to respond to command without hes-
itation. This new discipline instilled in the individual a sense
of alertness, urgency, and attention to detail. Confidence in
himself and his weapon grew as each man perfected the fifteen
l-second movements required to load and fire his musket. As
the Americans mastered the art of drill, they began to work as
a team and to develop a sense of pride in themselves and in
their unit.
Watching this model company drill, observers were amazed to see how quickly and orderly the troops could
be massed and maneuvered into different battle formations. Officers observed that organization, chain of
command, and control were improved as each man had a specific place and task within the formation. Later,
the members of the model company were distributed throughout the Army to teach drill. Through drill, they
improved the overall effectiveness and efficiency of the Army.
To ensure continuity and uniformity, von Steuben, by then a major general and the Army Inspector General,
wrote the first Army field manual in 1779, The Regulations for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of
the United States, commonly referred to as the Blue Book. The drill procedures initiated at Valley Forge
were not changed for 85 years, until the American Civil War, and many of the drill terms and procedures
2 Extracted From United States Army Field Manual – FM 22-5; December 1986; Headquarters, Department Of The Army
General Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben
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are in effect today. Drill commands are about the same as at the time of the War of 1812, except that then
the officers and noncommissioned officers began them by saying, “Take care to face to the right, right,
face.” Also, during the American revolutionary period, troops marched at a cadence of 76 steps a minute
instead of the current cadence of 120 steps. Then units performed precise movement on the battlefield, and
the army that could perform them best was often able to get behind the enemy, or on his flank, and thus
beat him. Speed spoiled the winning exactness. Also, firearms did not shoot far or accurately in 1776, so
troop formations could take more time to approach the enemy.
As we, members of the Cincinnati Chapter SAR Color Guard, carry out our duty we shall make every effort
to follow the Commands and Movements documented by General von Steuben in his manual—The Regu-
lations for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States. Additionally, we are referring to
the following for guidance and authenticity: The American Soldier of the Revolutionary War and The Na-
tional Society of the Sons of the American Revolution Color Guard Handbook.
Purpose of Drill & Ceremony
One of the characteristics of Drill & Ceremony is the inculcation of a discipline that allows unity of preci-
sion and movement of the Color Guard members such that Honor is paid to our Flag, the Occasion and the
Patriotism of our ancestry in their service to the United States.
The purpose of drill is to:
1. Enable a commander to move his unit from one place to another in an orderly manner.
2. Aid in disciplinary training by instilling habits of precision and response to the leader’s orders.
3. Provide a means, through ceremonies, of enhancing the morale of troops, developing the spirit of
cohesion, and presenting traditional, interesting and well-executed military parades.
4. Provide for the development of all soldiers in the practice of commanding troops
Training & Drill at Valley Forge
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C h a p t e r I I
C o l o r G u a r d O r g a n i z a t i o n ,
R o l e s & R e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s
Color Guard Structure and Leadership
The structure of the color guard shall be as depicted in the organization chart in the figure below:
Color Guard
Commander
Continental & State Lines
Camp Followers
Quartermaster
Adjutant
Safety Officer
&
Armorer
Community
Outreach
Adjutant
Paymaster
Adjutant
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Roles and Responsibilities of the
Color Guard Members & Leadership
Color Guard Commander — The Commander has the responsibility of leading and managing
the function and performance of the Color Guard in all events in which the color guard participates:
Performs pre-event planning and coordination
Coordinates color guard activity with on-site program director (EMCEE)
Assembles required color guard for each event
Inspects the color guard for uniformity and fitness for duty
Assigns color guardsmen to specific functions
Determines which colors to present
Determines the order of march and movement
Maintains record of individual attendance and supporting color guard member data base
Proposes awards and decorations based on performance and leadership within the color guard
Safety Officer and Armorer – The Safety Officer / Armorer is second in command and has
the responsibility for weapons safety for the color guard and viewing public:
Inspects all color guard members & weapons for safety equipment and proper function
Instructs all color guard members in the requisite safety protocol for each event location
Serves as the Musket Salute Corporal for all musket salutes & feu de joie
Serves as the Instructor for Drill & Ceremony practice & Manual of Arms
Supervises maintenance and repair of Cincinnati Chapter owned weapons & safety equipment
Makes recommendations for material purchases
Paymaster Adjutant – The Paymaster has the ongoing responsibility for documenting attend-
ance at Color Guard/Grave Marking events:
Maintain Attendance record for each Color Guard event
Calculate points and mileage for Color Guard Awards (Bronze/Silver/von Struben)
Maintain record of qualified participation in grave marking events
Issues monthly reports on Color Guard Activities
Compile annual Report on Color Guard Activities
Coordinate Color Guard Announcements on Cincinnati Chapter website.
Quartermaster Adjutant – The Quartermaster has the responsibility of:
Maintaining the colors in a ready-to-present condition
Transporting the colors along with bases and/or ground stakes to the event venue
Maintaining a list of needed material & accoutrement necessary for each event
Makes recommendations for material purchases
Community Outreach Adjutant – The Community Outreach Adjutant:
Tracks the schedule of Citizenship Naturalization Ceremonies in the surrounding community
Reports the color guard members attendance at outreach events to the Commander
Maintains a list of needed materials for specific events
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C h a p t e r I I I
F o r t h e C o l o r G u a r d
C o m m a n d e r
The Command Voice 3
A correctly delivered command will be understood by everyone in the unit. Correct commands have a tone,
cadence, and snap that demand willing, correct, and immediate response.
1. Voice Control
a. The loudness of a command is adjusted to the number of soldiers in the unit. Normally, the com-
mander is to the front and center of the unit and speaks facing the unit so that his voice reaches
everyone.
b. It is necessary for the voice to have carrying power, but excessive exertion is unnecessary and
harmful. A typical result of trying too hard is the almost unconscious tightening of the neck muscles
to force sound out. This produces strain, hoarseness, sore throat, and worst of all, indistinct and
jumbled sounds instead of clear commands. Ease is achieved through good posture, proper breath-
ing, and correct adjustment of throat and mouth muscles, and confidence.
c. The best posture for giving commands is the position of attention. Soldiers in formation notice the
posture of their leader. If his posture is unmilitary (relaxed, slouched, stiff, or uneasy), the subor-
dinates will imitate it.
d. The most important muscle used in breathing is the diaphragm — the large muscle that separates
the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity. The diaphragm automatically controls normal breathing
and is used to control the breath in giving commands.
e. The throat, mouth, and nose act as amplifiers and help to give fullness (resonance) and projection
to the voice.
The Best Posture for Giving Commands
is the Position of Attention
2. Distinctiveness
a. Distinctiveness depends on the correct use of the tongue, lips, and teeth, which form the separate
sounds of a word and group the sounds into syllables. Distinct commands are effective; indistinct
commands cause confusion. All commands can be pronounced correctly without loss of effect.
Emphasize correct enunciation (distinctiveness). To enunciate clearly, make full use of the lips,
tongue, and lower jaw.
b. To develop the ability to give clear, distinct commands, practice giving commands slowly and
carefully, prolonging the syllables. Then, gradually increase the rate of delivery to develop proper
cadence, still enunciating each syllable distinctly.
3 Extracted From United States Army Field Manual – FM 22-5; December 1986; Headquarters, Department Of The Army
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3. Inflection – Inflection is the rise and fall in pitch and the tone changes of the voice.
a. The preparatory command is the command that indicates movement. Pronounce each prepara-
tory command with a rising inflection. The most desirable pitch, when beginning a preparatory
command, is near the level of the natural speaking voice. A common fault with beginners is to start
the preparatory command in a pitch so high that, after employing a rising inflection for the prepar-
atory command, it is impossible to give the command of execution with clarity or without strain. A
good rule to remember is to begin a command near the natural pitch of the voice.
b. The command of execution is the command that indicates when a movement is to be executed.
Give it in a sharper tone and in a slightly higher pitch than the last syllable of the preparatory
command. It must be given with plenty of snap. The best way to develop a command voice is to
practice.
c. In combined commands, such as FALL IN and FALL OUT, the preparatory command and com-
mand of execution are combined. Give these commands without inflection and with the uniform
high pitch and loudness of a normal command of execution.
Cadence
4. Cadence
a. Cadence, in commands, means a uniform and rhythmic flow of words. The interval between com-
mands is uniform in length for any given troop unit. This is necessary so that everyone in the unit
will be able to understand the preparatory command and will know when to expect the command
of execution. For the squad in march, except when supplementary commands need to be given, the
interval of time is that which allows one step (or count) between the preparatory command and the
command of execution. The same interval is used for commands given at the halt. Longer com-
mands, such as Right flank, MARCH, must be started so that the preparatory command will end
on the proper foot, and leave a full count between the preparatory command and command of exe-
cution.
b. When supplementary commands are necessary, the commander should allow for one count between
the preparatory command and the subordinate leader’s supplementary command, and an additional
count after the subordinate command but before the command of execution.
Cadence, In Commands, Means a Uniform
and Rhythmic Flow of Words
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C h a p t e r I V
F i r e a r m s S a f e t y & S a f e t y
E q u i p m e n t
Members of the Color Guard that are trained to carry the period weapons shall only carry one of the following
types of musketry:
Brown Bess Musket (2nd Model, Short Land)
Brown Bess Musketoon (Dragoon Model)
Charleville Musket (Model 1766)
Rifled Muskets (top) and/or Fowling Pieces (bottom) of the period
EACH OF US ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR AN-
OTHER’S SAFE FIREARMS CONDUCT
ALL FIREARMS ARE TO BE HANDLED AS IF
LOADED
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Nominal Musket Nomenclature
In these figures we shall present fundamental nomenclature for the British 2nd Model Short Land Musket almost always referred to as the Brown
Bess (upper) and the French Charleville Musket (lower). The purpose of this section is simply to present fundamental external identification of
various components of the weapons to enable a better understanding of the Manual of Arms that will be covered in extended detail in the follow-
ing sections.
Trigger &
Trigger Guard
Trigger &
Trigger Guard
Butt Plate Butt Stock
Wrist or Pistol Grip Lock
Stock Swell Muzzle Rammer Barrel
Frizzen Spring
Frizzen Spring
Frizzen
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Required Safety Equipment
1. All of the aforementioned weapons shall be in good working order, free of rust and corrosion and shall have
been proof tested for black powder firing service.
2. All weapons shall be equipped with an appropriate flash guard around the Frizzen & Pan
3. All weapons shall be equipped with a sling, properly installed and configured
4. Brown Bess and Charleville weapons shall be properly fitted with the correct bayonet
5. Each weapon shall have the appropriate Rammer (ram rod)
b. Hammerstall (Safety) –
The leather envelope that
slips over the frizzen/ham-
mer preventing inadvert-
ent hammer strike and ac-
cidental firing.
a. Flash Guard (Safety) –
The brass shield pre-
vents powder flash in
the pan from injuring
shooter or bystanders
from powder burn. a.
b.
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6. Each compatriot carrying a weapon shall have the following accoutrement:
a. An approved Cartridge Box with Cover & Hanger. Many Cartridge Boxes of the period had room
under the cartridge block to carry cleaning and maintenance supplies and equipment.
b. Whisk & Prick for clearing misfires—the whisk is used for clearing the frizzes pan and the prick is
used to clear the touch hole if blocked.
c. Spare Flint & Feathers of appropriate size
d. Combination Tool for field service of weapon
e. Cleaning Jag and Patch Worm
f. An approved Bayonet, Carriage & Hanger. The image below reflects a double carriage for a Brown
Bess Bayonet and an NCO’s sword. A standard infantryman’s bayonet carriage is a single carriage for
bayonet only. Note that the carriage is the leather strap and frog—the bayonet scabbard is fixed to the
frog by means of a simple button or clasp as shown on both sword and bayonet scabbards.
a.
b. c.
d. e. b.
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C h a p t e r V
P a r a d e s a n d P r e s e n t a t i o n
O f
N a t i o n a l C o l o r s
Marching or Parade Formations
SAR Banner
CDR
CPL
Column of 3’s
Direction of
March
SAR Banner
CDR
Column of 4’s
CPL
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SAR Banner
CDR
Column of 2’s
Direction of
March
CPL
SAR Banner
CDR
Single Rank
CPL
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Change Direction of March by Column
1 2 3 4
1 2 3 4
Note: When performing this
march, color guardsmen must keep
their shoulders close to each other
so one guard does not advance ei-
ther to fast or too slow, thereby
keeping a straight line.
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Change Direction of March by the Right or
Left Oblique
To the Right Oblique -- March
To the Left Oblique -- March
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Change Direction of March by the Right or
Left Wheel
To the Left – Wheel - March To the Right – Wheel - March
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Change Direction of March by the Right or
Left Flank
Right Flank - March
1) When marching forward and the Command Right Flank – March is
given:
2) Pivot to the Right and continue marching perpendicular to the origi-
nal direction of travel
Left Flank - March
1) When marching forward and the Command LEFT FLANK –
MARCH is given:
2) Pivot to the LEFT and continue marching perpendicular to the origi-
nal direction of travel
To the Right Flank -- March
To the Left Flank -- March
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Movement of Colors in Formation
The Cincinnati Chapter Color Guard will generally be limited to the following flag sequence or arrangement for
chapter functions. Given that most of our chapter venues limit our formations to a single file presentation and
posting of colors. Therefore, these exercises are generally fairly simple requiring few complex commands or move-
ments. Additional colors and muskets can be added to the file in the order of precedence as detailed in the previous
section—Display Sequence of the Colors.
From time to time throughout the year the Cincinnati Color Guard has the opportunity to represent our Chapter,
Society and Ancestry in National Celebrations and Parades around the various Cincinnati communities. These
events will call for somewhat more complex command and movements of the guard.
The formation below is pretty flexible in that it can be used with a minimum of six color guardsmen or as many as
forty+ should we have an opportunity to march in concert with other chapters. Additional colors can be added to
the formation depending upon the availability of color guard members and audience.
Seven Man Color Guard
Musket Musket
Direction of
March
Musket Musket
Musket Musket
Five Man Color Guard
Three Man Color Guard
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Musket Musket
Musket Musket Musket Musket
Banner Banner
Direction of March
CGC
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Display Sequence of the Colors
The figures and text below detail the order and protocols in which the flags must be arranged when posted or car-
ried in parades or other ceremonies. These examples relate only to the static order or relative positions of the var-
ious colors relative to the National Flag.
1. National Colors
The National Flag of the United States shall always be displayed the flag’s own right4 of any collection of
flags or if displayed from in the center, shall be displayed higher that other colors
Betsy Ross
4 The term or phrase “own right” simply means that as the National Flag stands or is held during presentation, it will always be to the right-most position of all other colors as it faces an audience. Another perspective would hold that the flag is always right-most to the speaker as he/she faces an audience. If you are situated in an audience the National colors shall always be to your left.
A u d i e n c e t h i s D i r e c t i o n
National Colors may be displayed in the center of other colors IF it is flown higher or in front of other colors
A u d i e n c e t h i s D i r e c t i o n National Colors displayed on the flag's own right
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2. Other Country’s National Colors
3. Service Colors
4. State Colors (oldest first)
...Unless the state flag is displayed in its home state, then it is displayed to its own right in the sequence of
state colors.
5. SAR Colors
6. Continental Regimental Colors (oldest first)
Virginia—1788 Ohio—1803 Tennessee—1796
Virginia—1788 Ohio—1803 Tennessee—1796
US Army US Air Force US Navy US Marine Corps US Coast Guard
National Society Central District Society
Ohio Society Cincinnati Chapter
France Great Britain Germany
1st Virginia Regiment July 17, 1775
Cross of Burgundy 1700
11th Virginia Regiment 3 February 1777
13th Virginia Regiment 12 Feb 1777
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A p p e n d i x – a
Musket Safety Inspection 5
PART III – INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE INSPECTIONS
FREQUENCY OF INSPECTIONS
If a park has a seasonal program, each park weapon should be subjected to a complete inspection at the beginning
and end of the season using the National Park Service inspection checklist appropriate to the weapon (see checklist
below).
If the program is year round, complete inspections should be conducted every six months. All weapons will
receive a cursory inspection before and after every historic weapons demonstration; the after demonstration
inspection will occur when the weapon has been cleaned and before it is stored for the day. Weapons in storage
should be checked on a regularly scheduled basis (at least monthly) for rust or other moisture, storage, or
cleaning related damage.
All newly acquired weapons will be inspected using the appropriate checklist before firing.
If a weapon does not meet safety standards for any reason, that particular weapon will be tagged out in accord-
ance with the park’s documented tag-out system, with the tag specifically detailing the problem(s). The tagged
weapon WILL NOT BE USED until repairs are affected. The park’s historic weapons supervisor will be re-
sponsible for insuring that such repairs are made as soon as possible.
Common Problems Encountered During Inspections
1. Overall Poor Cleaning - Inadequate or improper cleaning can result in a variety of safety and
operational issues: coke build-up in the bore, cleaning patches left in the bore, rust, corrosion,
screws too tight (parts can bind), loose screws, damaged stocks, etc. The final step in most
demonstrations is weapons cleaning, and quite often demonstrators rush through the process.
Proper cleaning and oiling of a weapon is critical, and without doubt the most frequent prob-
lem confronted during weapons inspections is poor cleaning.
2. Missing Safety Devices. All weapons used at National Park Service sites are are required to have
hammerstalls and flashguards. It is not uncommon for demonstrators to neglect replacement of
these items after cleaning, and many re-enactors from outside groups simply do not have them.
Spare hammerstalls and flashguards should always be available for both park weapons and for
re-enactors from outside groups.
3. Weak Mainspring - A weak mainspring will increase the frequency of misfires. If a weapon
appears to have a weak mainspring it should be replaced or taken to a competent gunsmith to
be hardened.
4. Weapon Fires on the Half Cock - A weapon that does not hold on the half-cock position can
have wear or damage to the half-cock notch on the tumbler, a weak or broken sear- spring, or
wear or damage to the nose of the sear. Worn or damaged parts should be replaced.
5 United States National Park Service Publication—18th Century Musket Manual 2010-01-21.pdf; Manual of Instruction for the Safe Use of
Reproduction Flintlock Rifles & Muskets in Interpretive Demonstrations pp.6-8;
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5. Bent or Stuck Rammer. Bent ram rods are a frequent occurrence and can cause the rammer to bind
in its channel, which can result in embarrassment when a rammer sticks, or in injury while at-
tempting to forcibly remove a bent rammer from its channel. Bent rammers can be carefully
straightened with little trouble, and parks should have a ram rod removal tool to deal with stuck
rammers. Bent rammers often occur when a demonstrator tries to force down a cartridge that
sticks part way down the barrel; short, sharp taps are not only safer, but work much better than
fisting the ram rod and attempting to muscle the cartridge.
6. White or light spots on the stock. Certain parts of the stock will have adhered powder after firing
and require cleaning with water. Heavy rubbing of the stock with wet patches will eventually
leave lighter spots, usually above the lock plate. A very light oiling with linseed oil after cleaning
can prevent this problem.
7. Cleaning Patch Lodged In Barrel - Attempt to remove a stuck patch by careful use of the
worm. Always turn the worm in a clockwise direction or the worm may unscrew itself from
the cleaning rod. A CO2 misfire kit or high pressure air from a maintenance shop can also be
effective in removing a stuck patch. Pulling the breech-plug is the last resort and extreme care should
be used.
8. Burrs or Sharp Points on Metal Parts. Careless handling or disassembly or assembly can result
in damage to metal parts which can cause injury to demonstrators. Proper training can reduce
this problem, but any burrs or sharps points should be filed or ground down.
Broken parts. It goes without saying that parts break or will wear from heavy use. To reduce
the necessity of tagging out a weapon for an extended period of time, parks should keep a
supply of spare parts on hand, particularly parts that are prone to breaking
9. The following checklist should be used when inspecting individual firearms. Newly purchased
firearms should be inspected using this checklist prior to placing into service (see following
page)
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10.
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Misfire Procedures 6
Each park shall develop a written Misfire Plan to address the action necessary to render a firearm safe in the
event of a Level I or Level II Misfire
Types of Misfires
A “Level I Misfire” is defined as a misfire that can be cleared on the demonstration area and the
demonstration can continue
A “Level II Misfire” is defined as a misfire that cannot be cleared at the demonstration area without disrupting
the demonstration. Specialized equipment is needed to render the firearm safe
Causes of Misfires
Improperly cleaned firearm: If a firearm is not properly cleaned immediately after use, the
residue in the barrel will harden, rust and corrosion will form. This buildup of fouling will likely
obstruct the vent. Excessive oil may pool in the breech and obstruct the vent or neutralize the powder
charge.
Improperly sized flint: If the flint is too large it can keep the pan from closing tightly allowing
powder to be spilled while handling the weapon.
Improper flint position: The flint must be placed in the jaws so it will make good contact with
the steel.
Improper loading procedure: The powder charge is not properly seated under the vent. Once fire
has been introduced to the bore, do not re-ram the charge!
Level I Misfire Procedures
A. Failure to Spark:
1. Remain at position of aim. Count to ten
2. Interpreter explains the situation to the public.
3. Return to the priming position and half-cock the firelock
4. Check priming and flint. If working with the flint (striking or knapping) attach hammer stall.
Also dump priming when working with flint.
5. Reprime if necessary.
6. Repeat drill from “SHUT PAN!” command. This is done without reloading or ramming.
7. If the weapon fails to fire after three attempts, dismiss the visitors and move to a safe area to per-
form Level II Misfire procedures.
B. Flash in the Pan
1. Remain at position of aim. Count to ten
2. Interpreter explains the situation to the public.
3. Return to the priming position and half-cock the firelock
4. Pick touch-hole and reprime.
5. Repeat drill from “SHUT PAN!” command. This is done without reloading or ramming.
6. If the weapon fails to fire after three attempts, dismiss the visitors and move to a safe area to
perform Level II Misfire procedures.
C. Level II Misfire Clearing Procedures
Level II Misfire—Co2 Discharger
1. Keep the piece pointed in a safe direction
6 IBID – pp. 39-40
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2. Open the pan and dump out the priming.
3. Place the CO2 discharger with adapter in the vent. Press the discharger lever quickly and
release.
4. Clean and inspect the piece before attempting to load it again.
D. Level II Misfire— Unloading Through the Muzzle
Should the CO2 discharger not be available or fail to remove the charge, the piece must be unloaded
through the muzzle
1. Keep the piece pointed in a safe direction
2. Open the pan and dump out the priming.
3. Soak the powder charge with water poured down the muzzle.
4. When the powder charge is sufficiently wet, remove the obstruction with a wiper.
5. Clean and inspect the piece before attempting to load it again.
In group-firing demonstrations where multiple rounds are fired, a demonstrator who has had a misfire
should announce or signal to the demonstration supervisor that a misfire has occurred before applying
the appropriate misfire procedure.
Once the misfire has been attended to, the demonstrator will come to the position of Shoulder---Fire-
lock! The demonstrator should remain at that position, and being sure not to reload and ram again, wait
and fire on command with the rest of the unit. If the demonstration supervisor decides not to fire again,
proceed with the Level II Misfire Procedure.
E. Safety Notes
1. Weapons are to be kept down-range and away from visitors at all times.
2. DO NOT ram again after a misfire.
3. All weapons are required to have flash guards attached when firing in ranks.
4. Hammer stalls are required items on flintlock firearms
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Drill & Ceremony Manual
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National Colo r Guard Commander’s Pol-
icy and Procedures —Firearms use in Drill
& Ceremony
Broad Outline of Policies and Procedures
Presented Fall 2017 Meeting Louisville, KY
A. Policies
1. Insurance
a. Insurance is required for any Chapter who fires
b. State and National SAR will be named as Additional Insureds
c. Copies forwarded to at least State SAR
2. Training
a. All members firing will be properly trained
b. NRA-NMLRA training courses that offer certification
c. Costs are in the $150 to $250 range
d. Copy of certification forwarded to at least State SAR Firearms
3. Firearms
a. Period Correct only:
i. Brown Bess
ii. French Charleville
iii. American Long Rifle
iv. American Fowler
b. No Firing of Original Firearms
c. Must be manufactured to fire black powder
d. Types of and Limitations on Black Powder
e. Proper handling
4. Edged Weapons
a. Swords, Bayonets, Halberds/Pikes, Knives
b. Proper handling
5. Safety
a. Flash Protector
b. Frizzen Cover
c. .Safety Inspection by commander or his designee
d. Black Powder to be used
e. Only Blank Paper Cartridges will be used
f. Never load from a powder horn
g. Clothing to be natural fiber fabrics or leather
h. At no time will a color guard member be impaired by alcohol or medication while firing
i. Minimum age for participation in firing
6. Enforcement
a. Commander or his designee
b. Demonstrated knowledge of and compliance with approved policies
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B. Procedures
1. Site Safety
a. Advise participants of any adverse weather conditions
i. Lightning
ii. Extreme Heat
iii. Provide for hydration
iv. Identification of appropriate shelter
b. Inspect all areas and routes that will be used by color guard
i. Trip/fall hazards
ii. Low banging obstacles
iii. Combustible materials in area where firing
iv. Consideration should be made when firing between buildings or structures
v. Consideration of down range area and side space for safe firing
2. Safety Officer
a. Safety Officer shall be designated and present at every event where firing occurs
b. Safety Officer shall be present while rendering a misfire safe to insure safety precautions are observed
3. Pre-Event Musket Check
Commander or his designee will conduct an inspection of all firearms that are to be fired
4. Post-Event/Misfire Safety Check
a. Commander or his designee will conduct Post event safety check
b. Safety Officer will conduct all misfire safety checks
5. Firing Commands
a. SAR will adopt standard firing commands
b. Proposed Firing Commands:
vi. Fall in
vii. Left Shoulder Arms
viii. Prime and Load
ix. Make Ready
x. Present
xi. Fire
xii. Left Shoulder Arms
6. Enforcement a. Commander or his designee
b. Demonstrated knowledge of and compliance with approved procedures
c. Demonstrated efficiency in safely loading and firing the weapons